Fit Life

How do I get started using kettlebells?

January 20, 2010

To learn how to use kettlebells it is highly recommended that you start by identifying a qualified professional who has an NCCA-accredited fitness certification, as well as additional training on how to use kettlebells.

Getting started

Start by learning how to hold the bell safely and properly - wrap both hands completely around the handle. The first exercise to try is the kettlebell hip hinge—this is the foundational movement for more dynamic exercises like a swing or a swing-snatch. To do the hip hinge—hold the kettlebell with both hands so it is hanging in front of the body by the waist, brace the stomach, keep the knees slightly bent and push your weight back into your hips (maintain a straight spine, don’t let the back bend or round), once you can’t move the hips any further (without causing rounding in the back) then squeeze your glutes and push the hips forward to return to standing. Start with 1 set of 15 and progress to doing three sets of 15 with 45 seconds rest between each set. Once you can do three sets of hip hinges it will be time to progress to swings.

Kettlebell swing

To do a swing, increase the pace of the hip hinge—sink back quickly into the hips during the lowering phase, then explosively push the feet into the ground and thrust the hips forward to generate the momentum for the exercise. Start with one set of 12 swings holding on to the bell with both hands, progress to doing one-handed swings—2 sets of 12 reps, holding with one hand, no rest when switching hands and 45-60 sec rest after using both hands.

McCall has an MS in Exercise Science and Health Promotion. In addition, he is an ACE-certified Personal Trainer (ACE-CPT) and holds additional certifications and advanced specializations through NSCA and NASM. McCall has been featured in the Washington Post, the New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, Runner’s World and Self.

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